"But as for me, it is good to be near to God." Psalm 73:28

At the beginning of a new year it seems a tradition to make resolutions and so very many do so, however, most are forgotten in a few weeks or even a few days. But I challenge each one of us to be resolute in our commitment to be near to God. What then are some of the things we can do to stay near to Him?

If you really know God, you will want to talk to Him! We talk to Him in pray. Not just coming to Him when we need or want something No! Besides supplication, we tell Him of our adoration and worship of Him; we confess and repent, when we step out of His will; we intercede for others and we give thanks and more thanks for all He is doing in our lives.

Scripture tells us to continually,
"pray without ceasing." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 And we can do this sitting, kneeling, walking, standing or bowing; in our prayer closet, with fellow believers, or in a crowd.

The one who stays near to God prays and he/she reads and studies the Scriptures.
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God man be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."  2 Timothy 3:16-17

The one who stays near to God not only worships Him in private, but also in public worship.
"I will declare our name to My brethren; In the midst of the congregation in will sing praise to You." Hebrews 2:12

The one who stays near to God takes time to meditate on God and the things of God.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14 And, "O how I love your law!
It is my meditation all day long." Psalm 119:97

The one who stays near to God is obedient. When one disobeys there is a break in our contact. God doesn't move it is the disobedient one who does.
As stated above confession and repentance are a part of our prayer life.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

A line in the hymn goes:
"Trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey."

So to stay near to God we pray, read and study the Bible; worship in private and in the congregation; meditate on God and the things of God; and obey!
And in all things we give thanks with a grateful heart for Scripture tells us in Romans 8:28, "For we know that God causes all things to work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."

This is not an earthly resolution, but of spiritual commitment.

We love and adore you Most Holy Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen